MIAMI, United States. — Millions of red crabs are crushed annually in Cuba during their breeding migrations. This was reflected in a report from the agency euronewswhich captured the phenomenon on the roads in the south of the province of Cienfuegos.
With the arrival of spring, the red crabs leave the forest and travel to the Bay of Pigs area crossing the roads. At least three and a half million of them are crushed to death by transport vehicles.
Although the mass migration usually occurs between April and May, it could extend until July.
Local authorities have sought solutions to prevent the deaths of the crabs. However, the alternatives found so far have not been successful.
“Some bridges were built nearby, about 15 kilometers from here, after Punta Perdiz, but they don’t work that much, because there is very little space,” he explained to euronews Amaury Urra, a local guide.
Given the ineffectiveness of the current diversions, the local affirms that other routes should be created to protect the population of red crabs.
“Between Playa Larga and Cayo Ramona, a town that is 12 kilometers from Girón, there is an embankment inside, which would be a strategy,” he specified.
The presence of red crabs in the area during the massive migration also represents a threat to drivers, since the crustaceans, feeling threatened, can cross the tires with their spikes.
An adult red crab can reach up to 16 centimeters wide and as its name indicates, they are characterized by a fiery hue that is usually darker in their exoskeleton. Unlike other species of crabs, their claws are symmetrical and during their stay in tropical forests they feed on dry leaves, fruits, flowers and seeds.
Receive information from CubaNet on your cell phone through WhatsApp. Send us a message with the word “CUBA” on the phone +1 (786) 316-2072, You can also subscribe to our electronic newsletter by giving click here.
